A guide to nightlife in Cancun

Holidays in Mexico give you the chance to let your hair down with unique and wonderful nightlife options wherever you stay. Venues range from loud and lively nightclubs with state-of-the-art light and sound equipment to chilled-out dive bars – and just about everything in between. Cancun‘s bars, lounges and nightclubs will take care of all your evening entertainment needs, and there’s plenty we haven’t listed here – but here’s a pick of the best to get you started.

Let yourself be entertained at Coco Bongo

Get ready to party like you’ve never partied before with a night at Cancun’s Coco Bongo. One of the hottest clubs in the city has sheer eye-popping spectacles with outrageous acrobatic shows, huge video screens, fog sprayers, lights and special effects. Music comes courtesy of top international DJs, and rock-&-roll and salsa bands, Cancun holidays wouldn’t be the same without a trip to Coco Bongo.

Fun and games at Dady'O

For when you’ve just got to dance, make a beeline for the dancefloor at Dady’O. It’s been an institution since the end of the 1980s and so is one of the most well-known and loved clubs in the city. The dancefloor is massive, and there’s plenty of seating for when you want to take a break from throwing shapes. The club also features live music and hosts many theme nights and activities such as bikini contests.

Feel truly glamorous at Mandala

Mandala nightclub hosts some of the liveliest and hippest parties in the city, attracting young and energetic crowds. Inside, the decor is Indian-inspired with beautiful fabrics and rich colours. It feels like you’re in a swish lounge, one where the front opens out on to the street. The dress code is casual and you can get a ticket to knock back unlimited drinks from the open bar. Mandala opens daily at 9.30pm and waves off the party crowds at 5am.

Keep it low-key with the locals at La Taberna

If you want to drink with the locals, head to La Taberna. This welcoming downtown bar is popular with friends, families and co-workers who come for a relaxing drink, an occasional game of pool and to watch major sporting events on the big television screens. The bar is open every day from about 1pm to 5am.

Aim to impress at Rose Bar

When it’s just the two of you and romance is hovering seductively in the air, the Rose Bar is just what Cupid ordered. This stylishly decorated spot is part of the ME Cancun Hotel and features soft lighting to get you in the mood. Among the highlights is a large selection of Champagnes.

While this is a quieter alternative to many of the city’s other nightspots, it can get lively on Friday and Saturday nights with entertainment provided by DJs and live music groups.